Topic: Tire size question

[drak]

I am thinking about getting some Nokian WR's for my 2001 Corolla. Should I go for the "T" rated 175/65/14 or the "H" rated 185/65/14's? I will use these tires all year since I only drive this car about 6-7K a year, and where I live gets occasional snow and ice depending upon the winter.

Is there any significant difference "wear wise" or "snow performance" wise vs these two sizes.  Thx in advance

[Craig]

A narrower tire will do marginally better in the snow.  A wider tire will be more stable in the dry.

First of all, I'd get the one with the most appropriate outside diameter for your car.  You sure your second choice isn't 185/60R14?

[drak]

My main question is that the smaller size option is "T" rated and the larger option is "H" rated.  

Will the "H" tire have significantly better wear and performance (dry), or is it just a marginal difference?

Drak

[weebl]

Difference will more than likely be marginal in terms of wear between the two speed ratings, but as a general rule of thumb, the higher speed rating will provide better wear at the cost of reduced ice/snow traction.  Still, these differences should be minimal and not the driving factor in most cases.

I would stick with OEM size in your case, as the Nokian WR's are intended for year-round use.  Minus sizing will be undesirable for summer, and plus sizing will be undesirable for winter.  Just check that the speed rating is at least what was provided OEM.  I believe they came with S rated, so you're fine either way.

[Minou]

I'd go for 185/65-14.  That was the OEM size for the S and LE models of those years, if I'm not mistaken.  So even if your Corolla is a CE that came stock with 175/65-15, going with the 185's shouldn't be a problem and that size is easier to find and your car will have a more substantial appearance with those and probably provide better handling and comfort.  They should also last longer, everything else being equal.